Pink Floyd – Breathe – Verse 1
Breathe < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Em, A7, Em, A7, Em, A7, Em, A7
Chord Progression Analysis
Em (i), A7 (IV7)
Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin
Am (i), G#7 (V7)
2. “Hotel California” by Eagles
Bm (i), F#7 (V7)
3. “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd
Bm (i), A7 (IV7)
These songs share a similar structure, using a minor tonic and a borrowed, dominant seventh chord. This helps create a sense of tension and resolution that is common to these styles of music, and contributes to their emotional impact.
Musical Analysis
The verse consists of an 8-chord sequence that alternates between the tonic chord, Em (i), a minor chord, and a borrowed, dominant seventh chord, A7 (IV7), which is borrowed from the parallel major key (E major). This borrowed chord creates a sense of tension and expectation, which is then resolved when the progression returns to the tonic chord, Em. This alternation between tension and resolution creates a sense of movement and contributes to the dreamy atmosphere of the song.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in “Breathe” by Pink Floyd is relatively simple, mostly alternating between two chords – Em and A7. However, this simplicity is quite effective in creating a relaxed, dreamy feel which is consistent with the overall theme of the song. This is a characteristic feature of Pink Floyd’s music, using simple chords and progressions to create a powerful emotional impact.
Style Analysis
The use of a simple and repetitive chord progression is characteristic of Pink Floyd’s relaxed, psychedelic rock style. Their music often features few chords and simple progressions, while focusing more on the arrangement, instrumentation, and emotional impact of the song. This reflects the influence of blues and folk music on their songwriting, both of which rely heavily on simple chord progressions.
What are the chords in: Pink Floyd – Breathe – Verse 1?
Em, A7, Em, A7, Em, A7, Em, A7
